The United States has issued a sharp warning to countries, companies and financial networks that continue to support Iran, signalling that a new wave of sanctions could soon target airlines, maritime operators, and even digital‑asset platforms. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington is prepared to widen its pressure campaign as the conflict involving Iran escalates.
Speaking to Fox News after the G20 meeting in Asheville, North Carolina, Bessent urged governments and businesses to distance themselves from Tehran. He stressed that the “fastest way” to end the conflict is for no one to back Iran’s regime, referencing recent statements of support for Iran from Russian President Vladimir Putin. Bessent added that the US is holding “very fulsome talks” with any entity still aiding Tehran, making clear that consequences could follow.
The G20 gathering provided a platform for the Trump administration to argue that its economic policies are driving stronger growth and could help tackle America’s $40 trillion government debt burden. Bessent told his counterparts that with the US “once again leading this forum,” global partners appear more willing to align with Washington’s economic direction.
The backdrop to these discussions was the rapidly intensifying US–Iran conflict, which has rattled global markets. Fresh US airstrikes on Iran pushed oil prices to five‑week highs, triggering a drop in world stocks and extending a global selloff in bonds amid renewed inflation fears.